LuminUltra Acquires aqua-tools’ Rapid Microbial Solutions Division

Demonstrating continued growth as a global market leader in rapid and portable microbiological monitoring tools, LuminUltra has acquired aqua-tools’ Rapid Microbial Solutions division, including its B-QUA™ product line for ballast water compliance monitoring and the European customer base for its 2nd Generation ATP® measurement products.

This acquisition closed today. This is the second significant acquisition by LuminUltra in recent weeks – the company’s purchase of Baltimore, Maryland-based InstantLabs, a developer of DNA-based measurement technologies, was announced on September 19.

“In recent years, the International Maritime Organization and the U.S. Coast Guard have put into place regulations governing aquatic invasive species and ballast water. Seagoing vessels around the world must now install a ballast water treatment system and subsequently verify that it is functioning correctly. That’s where LuminUltra’s newly-acquired B-QUA product line comes in – we can provide the technology that allows ship operators to ensure they are meeting regulatory requirements related to ballast water,” says Pat Whalen, President and CEO of LuminUltra. “The B-QUA product line is the only on-board testing solution to confirm compliance for the 3 fractions of organisms stipulated by the IMO and USCG within a matter of an hour. By comparison, tests providing similar information can require days.”

Also, as part of this transaction, LuminUltra is assuming responsibility for sales of its 2nd Generation ATP measurement products in Europe following oversight by aqua-tools since 2006. “We are excited to bring our customer base in Europe that much closer to the LuminUltra family,” said Whalen. “Our goal will be to expand our footprint through growing a wider and more robust network of partners across the continent and delivering our hallmark commitment to customer service and best-in-class user experience.”

Those Aqua-Tools employees dedicated to the Rapid Microbial Solutions division will join the LuminUltra team while remaining based in Paris, France. Following the sale of these product lines to LuminUltra, aqua-tools will continue to operate as a separate business, now focusing solely on its Infection Control Solutions business.